Monterrey, Mexico – Tropical Storm Alberto made landfall over Mexico, bringing heavy rains that have resulted in at least three reported deaths. Despite the devastation, the storm offers hope to a region grappling with a severe drought. Alberto marks the first named storm of the season, with forecasts predicting its rapid weakening as it moves west over land.
The storm’s impact has been felt on both sides of the border, with rain extending along the south Texas coast and into Mexico’s Veracruz state. As of early Thursday morning, Alberto was moving westward at 13 miles per hour, with sustained maximum winds of 45 miles per hour. Although wind speeds have decreased since the last update from the National Hurricane Center, rainfall from the storm is expected to diminish in southern Texas, with the possibility of isolated tornadoes in parts of Deep South Texas.
In northeast Mexico, heavy rain is anticipated to continue throughout the morning, with expected rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches. Higher terrain areas in Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas could see up to 20 inches of rain, leading to flash floods, urban flooding, and potential mudslides. While Mexican authorities remain cautious, they are hopeful that Alberto will alleviate the water scarcity issues plaguing the region.
In Tamaulipas, state Secretary of Hydrological Resources Raúl Quiroga Álvarez expressed optimism, stating that the storm’s arrival is a long-awaited relief for the drought-stricken area. However, neighboring Nuevo Leon state has reported three fatalities linked to Alberto, with authorities suspending metro and public transportation services until the storm passes.
Local residents, such as Blanca Coronel Moral in Tampico, are welcoming the much-needed rainfall brought by Alberto. Schools in Tamaulipas have been closed for the remainder of the week due to the potential for localized flooding. Despite the challenges posed by the storm, many in Mexico remain hopeful for the positive impact of the rainfall on the parched region.